Peru
Northern Peru 11 Days – Cajamarca, Trujillo, Chiclayo & Chachapoyas,Kuelap
Summary
Northern Peru 11 Days / 10 Nights – Cajamarca, Trujillo, Chiclayo & Chachapoyas
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Arrival in Lima and time to rest before beginning your journey through northern Peru.
Day 2: Lima – Cajamarca – City Tour
Travel to Cajamarca and explore its main historical attractions, including the Main Square, Cathedral, Ransom Room, Belén Complex, and Santa Apolonia Hill.
Day 3: Cumbemayo – Ventanillas de Otuzco – Bus to Trujillo
Explore Cumbemayo and its impressive rock formations, visit the Ventanillas de Otuzco and other attractions in the Cajamarca countryside before traveling by bus to Trujillo.
Day 4: Huacas del Sol y la Luna – Chan Chan – Huanchaco
Discover important archaeological remains of the Moche and Chimú cultures, including the Huacas del Sol y la Luna, Chan Chan, and the traditional beach town of Huanchaco.
Day 5: El Brujo – Lady of Cao – Chiclayo
Visit the El Brujo Archaeological Complex and the Cao Museum to learn about the history of the Lady of Cao. Afterwards, continue to Chiclayo.
Day 6: Lord of Sipán – Huaca Rajada – Royal Tombs – Brüning Museum
Explore some of the most important archaeological sites and museums related to the Moche and Lambayeque cultures.
Day 7: Free Day in Chiclayo – Pimentel – Bus to Chachapoyas
Enjoy free time to explore Chiclayo, optionally visit Pimentel Beach, and sample the local cuisine before traveling to Chachapoyas.
Day 8: Kuélap by Cable Car
Travel through the mountains of Chachapoyas, ride the cable car, and visit the impressive Kuélap Fortress, located at approximately 3,100 meters above sea level.
Day 9: Quiocta Caverns – Sarcophagi of Karajía
Explore the natural formations inside the Quiocta Caverns and discover the extraordinary Sarcophagi of Karajía located high on a cliff.
Day 10: Gocta Waterfall
Hike from Cocachimba through cloud forest landscapes to the spectacular Gocta Waterfall.
Day 11: Chachapoyas – Free Time – Departure
Enjoy free time in Chachapoyas before your transfer to the bus terminal or airport.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Lima
Highlight of the day: Arrival in Peru and preparation for your journey through the northern part of the country.
Arrival in Lima.
After your arrival, you will have time to rest and prepare to continue to Cajamarca the following day.
The program does not specify sightseeing activities for this day.
Overnight: Lima.
Meals: Not specified.
Day 2: Lima – Cajamarca – City Tour
Highlight of the day: Discover Cajamarca’s historic center and some of the city’s most representative historical sites.
During the day, you will continue your journey from Lima to Cajamarca.
The means of transportation for this segment must be confirmed according to the final reservation.
The morning will be available for rest or independent activities.
The program also mentions the possibility of visiting thermal baths. This activity must be confirmed separately because it is not developed within the detailed itinerary.
At approximately 3:30 p.m., the Cajamarca City Tour will begin.
During the tour, you will visit:
- Cajamarca Main Square
- Santa Catalina de Alejandría Church – Cajamarca Cathedral
- San Francisco Church
- Ransom Room
- Belén Complex
- Colonial Men’s Hospital
- Colonial Women’s Hospital
- Archaeological Museum and Ethnographic Museum
- Santa Apolonia Hill
- Ceremonial altars known as the Inca’s Seat
The tour is expected to finish at approximately 6:30 p.m.
Overnight: Cajamarca.
Meals: Not specified.
Day 3: Cumbemayo – Ventanillas de Otuzco – Bus to Trujillo
Highlight of the day: Explore ancient canals, rock formations, pre-Hispanic burial sites, and rural landscapes of Cajamarca.
At approximately 9:30 a.m., the tour to Cumbemayo will begin.
Along the route, you will visit:
- Bellavista Viewpoint
- Layzón
- Site Museum
You will then enjoy a walk through the sanctuary and rock forest of Cumbemayo.
During the visit, you may observe:
- The Sacrificial Stone
- Ancient water channels
- Rock shelters
- Ceremonial altars
The return to Cajamarca is expected at approximately 2:00 p.m.
Ventanillas de Otuzco Tour
At approximately 3:30 p.m., the second excursion of the day will begin.
You will visit the Ventanillas de Otuzco, ancient funerary structures carved into the rock.
The tour also includes:
- Countryside Viewpoint
- Tres Molinos Estate
- Hydrangea Garden
- Los Alpes Farm
At Los Alpes Farm, you will have the opportunity to taste different dairy products from the region.
Arrival back in Cajamarca is expected at approximately 7:00 p.m.
Afterwards, you will continue to the bus terminal to board the overnight bus from Cajamarca to Trujillo.
Overnight: Overnight bus Cajamarca – Trujillo.
Meals: Not specified.
Day 4: Huacas del Sol y la Luna – Chan Chan – Huanchaco
Highlight of the day: Discover important archaeological remains of the Moche and Chimú cultures.
Upon arrival in Trujillo, you will be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., the excursion toward the traditional Moche countryside will begin.
The first visit will be to the Huacas del Sol y la Luna.
During the tour, you will learn about important constructions of the Moche civilization and admire impressive polychrome murals associated with ancient deities.
You will also enjoy a panoramic view of the Temple of the Sun.
The program also includes a stop to observe and photograph representations known as erotic or fertility ceramics.
At approximately 1:00 p.m., there will be a stop in Trujillo for lunch.
Lunch is not included.
At 2:30 p.m., continue north to visit the ancient City of Chan Chan, including the area known as Nik An Palace.
Finally, make a stop at the historic beach town of Huanchaco.
Return to Trujillo is expected at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Overnight: Trujillo.
Lunch: Not included.
Day 5: El Brujo Complex – Lady of Cao – Chiclayo
Highlight of the day: Discover one of the main ceremonial centers of the Chicama Valley and the history of the Lady of Cao.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., depart from Trujillo toward the El Brujo Archaeological Complex.
Visit Huaca Cao, considered one of the main ceremonial centers of the Chicama Valley.
During the visit, you will observe important polychrome murals related to the Moche civilization.
You will also learn about the Lady of Cao, whose burial was discovered at this archaeological complex.
The visit continues at the Cao Museum, where you can see different archaeological pieces and evidence related to the Moche culture.
Arrival back in Trujillo is expected at approximately 2:40 p.m.
After the excursion, the program will continue toward Chiclayo.
Important: The itinerary does not specify the schedule or type of transportation between Trujillo and Chiclayo. This service must be confirmed during final operations.
Overnight: Chiclayo.
Meals: Not specified.
Day 6: Lord of Sipán – Huaca Rajada – Royal Tombs – Brüning Museum
Highlight of the day: Discover some of the most important archaeological findings on Peru’s northern coast.
At approximately 10:50 a.m., the excursion related to the Lord of Sipán will begin.
Huaca Rajada – Sipán
Visit the archaeological site where the famous tomb of the Lord of Sipán was discovered.
During the visit, you will learn about the archaeological excavation area.
Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum
Continue to the province of Lambayeque to visit the impressive Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum.
The museum exhibits different archaeological pieces, including gold and silver objects found in the tombs of the Moche elite.
Brüning National Archaeological Museum
The program also includes a visit to the Brüning Museum, which houses collections of art and objects belonging to the Lambayeque culture and other societies developed in the region.
During the tour, there will be a stop for lunch in Lambayeque.
Lunch is not included.
Important: The order of Huaca Rajada, the Royal Tombs Museum, and the Brüning Museum may vary according to daily operations.
Return to Chiclayo is expected at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Note: According to the program provided, the Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum is closed on Mondays. This information must be reconfirmed before booking.
Overnight: Chiclayo.
Lunch: Not included.
Day 7: Free Day in Chiclayo – Pimentel – Bus to Chachapoyas
Highlight of the day: Enjoy free time to explore Chiclayo and its gastronomy before continuing to Chachapoyas.
This day will be free for independent activities.
You may use the time to explore Chiclayo, enjoy its local cuisine, or shop for traditional products.
Another recommended option is to visit Pimentel Beach.
These activities are independent and should not be considered included in the program.
At the agreed time, you will be transferred to the bus terminal to board the bus to Chachapoyas.
Overnight: Overnight bus Chiclayo – Chachapoyas.
Meals: Not specified.
Day 8: Kuélap by Cable Car
Highlight of the day: Explore the impressive Kuélap Fortress in the mountains of Chachapoyas.
Upon arrival in Chachapoyas, you will be welcomed and transferred to your accommodation.
At approximately 8:00 a.m., the excursion to Kuélap will begin.
During the journey, you will stop at Macro.
Afterwards, continue to Nuevo Tingo.
From this point, board the cable car for a journey of approximately 25 minutes.
Arrive at Malca Pampa and continue toward the Kuélap Fortress, located at approximately 3,100 meters above sea level.
Kuélap was built on the top of a mountain and is associated with the Chachapoyas culture.
During the visit, you will walk through different sectors of this important archaeological site.
Afterwards, return to Nuevo Tingo using the cable car again.
The program includes a stop for lunch in Nuevo Tingo.
Return to Chachapoyas is expected at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Important: According to the program provided, Kuélap is closed on Mondays. Operations must be reconfirmed before booking.
Overnight: Chachapoyas.
Meal mentioned: Lunch.
Day 9: Quiocta Caverns – Sarcophagi of Karajía
Highlight of the day: Combine an underground experience at Quiocta with one of the most impressive funerary traditions of the Chachapoyas culture.
At approximately 8:00 a.m., the excursion to the Quiocta Caverns will begin.
Enter the caverns to observe different natural rock formations, including:
- Stalactites
- Stalagmites
- Other formations typical of the cave system
You will have time to observe the formations and take photographs.
Afterwards, there will be a stop for lunch in Lamud.
After lunch, continue toward Cruzpata.
From there, hike toward the cliff where the impressive Sarcophagi of Karajía are located.
These funerary structures belong to the Chachapoyas culture and are remarkable for their location on a difficult-to-access rock face.
Return to Chachapoyas is expected at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Important: According to the program provided, the Quiocta Caverns are closed on Tuesdays. Operations must be reconfirmed before booking.
Overnight: Chachapoyas.
Meal mentioned: Lunch.
Day 10: Gocta Waterfall
Highlight of the day: Hike through cloud forest landscapes to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Chachapoyas region.
At approximately 8:00 a.m., depart from Chachapoyas toward Cocachimba.
The journey takes approximately 1 hour.
From Cocachimba, begin a hike of approximately 2 hours.
During the hike, enjoy mountain landscapes and observe different species of flora and fauna.
Finally, arrive at the Gocta Waterfall, whose height is indicated in the program as approximately 771 meters.
You will have time to enjoy the scenery and take photographs.
Afterwards, hike back toward Cocachimba.
The program includes a stop for lunch before returning to Chachapoyas.
Arrival is expected at approximately 5:00 p.m.
Overnight: Chachapoyas.
Meal mentioned: Lunch.
Day 11: Chachapoyas – Free Time – Departure
Highlight of the day: Enjoy your final hours in Chachapoyas before continuing to your next destination.
The final day will be free.
You may use the time to explore Chachapoyas, visit the city center, or enjoy independent activities.
At the previously coordinated time, you will be picked up from your accommodation and transferred to the bus terminal or airport, according to your next travel service.
End of our services.
Options Pricing
Starting at $ .00 USD Per Person
Rates and program availability are subject to confirmation.
The source document does not specify package prices, hotel categories, single supplements, or payment conditions.
The program is designed for a duration of 11 days / 10 nights.
Night distribution:
- 1 night in Lima
- 1 night in Cajamarca
- 1 night on the Cajamarca – Trujillo overnight bus
- 1 night in Trujillo
- 2 nights in Chiclayo
- 1 night on the Chiclayo – Chachapoyas overnight bus
- 3 nights in Chachapoyas
Total: 10 nights.
Transportation from Lima to Cajamarca and the transfer from Trujillo to Chiclayo must be confirmed according to final operations.
Entrance tickets to museums, archaeological sites, and attractions must be confirmed in the final quotation.
Contact us to confirm rates, accommodation, transportation availability, and services for your preferred travel date.
Inclusions
Services contemplated according to the Northern Peru 11 Days / 10 Nights itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in Lima.
- Day 2: Travel to Cajamarca and Cajamarca City Tour.
- Day 3: Cumbemayo Tour, Ventanillas de Otuzco Tour, and bus from Cajamarca to Trujillo.
- Day 4: Reception in Trujillo, transfer to accommodation, Huacas del Sol y la Luna, Chan Chan, and Huanchaco.
- Day 5: El Brujo Tour and Cao Museum. Continuation to Chiclayo subject to operational confirmation.
- Day 6: Lord of Sipán Tour, including Huaca Rajada, Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum, and Brüning Museum.
- Day 7: Transfer to the terminal and bus from Chiclayo to Chachapoyas.
- Day 8: Reception in Chachapoyas, transfer to accommodation, Kuélap excursion, and cable car.
- Day 9: Quiocta Caverns and Sarcophagi of Karajía.
- Day 10: Gocta Waterfall excursion.
- Day 11: Transfer from the accommodation to the bus terminal or airport.
Accommodation according to the itinerary:
- 1 night in Lima
- 1 night in Cajamarca
- 1 night on the Cajamarca – Trujillo overnight bus
- 1 night in Trujillo
- 2 nights in Chiclayo
- 1 night on the Chiclayo – Chachapoyas overnight bus
- 3 nights in Chachapoyas
Total: 10 nights.
Not Included / Not Confirmed:
- Lima – Cajamarca transportation, as the means of transportation was not specified
- Visit to thermal baths in Cajamarca, unless additionally confirmed
- Trujillo – Chiclayo transfer until schedule and type of service are confirmed
- Lunch during the Trujillo tour on Day 4
- Lunch during the Lord of Sipán Tour
- Independent activities during free days
- Optional visit to Pimentel Beach
- Entrance tickets to archaeological sites and museums unless expressly confirmed
- Domestic or international flights
- Meals not expressly indicated
- Personal expenses
- Tips
What to bring
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING
- Documents and Travel Essentials
- Original passport or identification document
- Transportation and accommodation confirmations
- Travel insurance information
- Bank cards and some cash in Peruvian soles
- Small daypack for daily excursions
- Clothing
- Light and comfortable clothing for Trujillo and Chiclayo
- Layered clothing for Cajamarca and Chachapoyas
- Warm jacket for cool mornings and evenings
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Comfortable pants for hiking
- Hat or cap
- Comfortable clothing for overnight bus journeys
- Footwear
- Comfortable shoes for city walks and archaeological sites
- Shoes with good grip for Kuélap, Quiocta, Karajía, and Gocta
- Light footwear for hotel use
- Health and Protection
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Insect repellent for Chachapoyas and Gocta
- Personal medications
- Basic first-aid kit
- Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
- Accessories
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera or smartphone
- Chargers
- Waterproof protection for electronic devices
Tips:
- Bring layered clothing, as the itinerary combines coastal, highland, and cloud forest regions.
- Wear shoes with good grip during hikes.
- Bring rain protection especially for the Chachapoyas region.
- Keep your travel documents and valuables accessible during overnight bus journeys.
Before you go
How long is this Northern Peru itinerary?
The itinerary lasts 11 days and 10 nights.
Which cities does this itinerary visit?
The itinerary includes Lima, Cajamarca, Trujillo, Chiclayo, and Chachapoyas.
How are the nights distributed?
1 night in Lima.
1 night in Cajamarca.
1 night on the Cajamarca – Trujillo overnight bus.
1 night in Trujillo.
2 nights in Chiclayo.
1 night on the Chiclayo – Chachapoyas overnight bus.
3 nights in Chachapoyas.
Is transportation from Lima to Cajamarca included?
The itinerary indicates travel from Lima to Cajamarca but does not specify the means of transportation.
This service must be confirmed in the final quotation.
Is the Trujillo – Chiclayo transfer confirmed?
The itinerary includes continuation to Chiclayo after visiting El Brujo.
However, it does not specify the schedule or type of transportation.
This service must be confirmed during final operations.
Is the visit to Pimentel Beach included?
No.
The visit appears as an optional activity to enjoy independently during Day 7.
Is Kuélap visited by cable car?
Yes.
The program includes the cable car journey from Nuevo Tingo before continuing toward Kuélap Fortress.
What is the altitude of Kuélap?
The itinerary indicates approximately 3,100 meters above sea level.
Are there closure days to consider?
According to the program provided:
Kuélap is indicated as closed on Mondays.
The Quiocta Caverns are indicated as closed on Tuesdays.
The Royal Tombs of Sipán Museum is indicated as closed on Mondays.
These schedules must be reconfirmed before booking.
How long is the hike to Gocta Waterfall?
The itinerary indicates a hike of approximately 2 hours from Cocachimba to the waterfall.
The return hike is completed afterwards.
Are meals included?
Only meals expressly mentioned in the itinerary should be considered included.
The program mentions lunch during the Kuélap, Quiocta, and Gocta excursions.
Are entrance tickets included?
The document does not contain a detailed commercial list confirming all entrance tickets.
Entrance fees to archaeological sites, museums, and other attractions must therefore be confirmed in the final quotation.
